Hazel Leta Giles

Hazel L. Giles, 86, Lawson, MO, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on Tuesday, February 20,2024. Hazel was born on March 6, 1937, the daughter of Charles and Irene Smith. She grew up in Medina, Texas, and graduated from Medina High School. Hazel worked as a Candy Striper and worked for General Electric after moving to Missouri. Hazel married the Love of her life, George Giles on December 24,1966. George and Hazel moved to Lawson in 1971 where they raised their 8 children and faithfully attended the Lawson Baptist Church. Taking care of others was her passion. Hazel was a full-time home maker and as her family grew, she extended her care taking skills by caring for many of her Grandchildren and Great Grandchildren while their parents worked. She always welcomed friends of her kids and grandkids into her home. She was referred to as Grandma by more than just her own family. George and Hazel were proud of a time when Julie Dolt recognized them with a picture in the Lawson Review for attending a full week of Grandparents Day celebrations at the Southwest Elementary School, having grandchildren in all grades K-4 at the same time.

Hazel was preceded in death by her parents, husband, George in 2013; son, Russell in 2018; daughter, Donna Swope in 2022; two sisters, Naomi Mudd and Violet Norwood; brother, Tommy Charles Smith and three great grandchildren.

Hazel is survived by four daughters, Deborah Holt of Excelsior Springs, Rhonda (Marlin) Morris, Michelle (Dwayne) Wisdom, both of Lawson, and Karen Gooding of Cameron; two sons, Kevin (Robin) Giles of Excelsior Springs and Larry (Kristy) Giles of Lawson; son-in-law, Steve Swope of Kearney; 17 grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren.

Services will be held on Saturday, February 24, 2024 at the Bross and Spidle Funeral Home in Lawson, visitation from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m., with funeral and graveside service to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.